FBI on Aryan Skinheads in San Diego

(U) The United Society of Aryan Skinheads (USAS) is seeking to increase their visibility in San Diego in an effort to become the premier Skinhead organization in California. The San Diego Field Intelligence Group is seeking the assistance of local law enforcement partners to identify the location USAS members and groups in the San Diego area.

(U) USAS is a racist skinhead group originally formed in Portland, Oregon, in 1987, by skinheads who were concerned about the lack of unity in the racist skinhead community. In the early 1990s, members of the Portland group relocated to Riverside County, California, after the original group disbanded. In 1993, USAS reorganized itself to combat infighting and drug abuse that were present in the California skinhead community. According to a recovered USAS handbook, dated September 2005, the purpose of USAS is to “unite all members of the White race who can see the threat facing our people (White people who have the quality of character so that they are willing to stand up and do something about it) into a united fighting force of Skinheads who are ready to battle our enemies, on all fronts, and with every possible means, until we are victorious in fulfilling the 14 words.” [NOTE: 14 Words refers to the statement “We must secure the existence of our people and a future for white children.” This phrase was coined by wellknown and recently deceased white supremacist David Lane.]

(U//LES) USAS is comprised of two main components: chapters that are organized on a geographic basis and a general membership within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Information recovered from inmates in the CDCR system revealed USAS is a structured organization, with defined leadership roles. The non-incarcerated membership of USAS is divided into five chapters covering a specified geographic location in California.

Wolfpack Skinheads (Northern California)

American Frontline Skinheads (Northern California)

Tri-Counties Chapter (Location Unknown)

Orange County Chapter

San Diego Chapter

(U//LES) Each chapter is controlled by a five-man Chapter Council that reports directly to a five member High Council that oversees USAS.

(U//LES) Corroborated source reporting indicates USAS is attempting to become the premier skinhead organization in California. As part of its strategy, USAS is actively recruiting new members both inside and outside of the CDCR. Additionally, USAS is attempting to absorb other skinhead groups under the USAS banner. Although numerous white supremacist groups desire to unite various factions within the movement, attempts to unite these groups have failed because the groups are reluctant to give up their individual identities. USAS has differentiated themselves from other white supremacist organizations through its demonstrated ability to recruit other skinhead organizations, most notably the Wolfpack Skinheads, American Frontline Skinheads, and the Warrior Skins. Further source reporting indicates USAS is currently attempting to absorb other skinhead organizations within San Diego County.

(U) San Diego Territory

(U//LES) The San Diego Field Intelligence Group (FIG) has obtained corroborated information indicating that USAS has designated the San Diego Chapter as their “flagship” chapter. However, current available intelligence also indicates a rift within
the leadership of the San Diego Chapter. San Diego FIG assesses that the San Diego Chapter of USAS has a current strength of approximately 50 members and prospective members. A review of criminal records of identified USAS members in San Diego
County shows a significant pattern of criminal violence. Law enforcement personnel should use caution when contacting USAS members or associates.

(U) Identifying USAS Members

(U) There are various groups within the white supremacy movement in the San Diego territory, including multiple skinhead organizations. Skinheads can usually be identified by their dress, typically wearing combat boots (frequently Doc Marten’s), straight leg jeans, suspenders (referred to as braces), flight jackets, and short hair cuts. It is important to recognize that there are several non-racist factions within the skinhead community who also dress in a similar fashion.

(U) In an effort to avoid classification as gang members, skinheads typically claim “independent” when asked for a gang association. While independent skinheads exist, they are the exception rather than the rule. Close observation of the pins and patches on their flight jackets, and a close examination of their tattoos will typically identify which “crew” a particular skinhead associates with.